We all have a general duty not to “injure” anyone else. If someone injures you or does something that causes you to become ill, you may have a claim against them.

In addition, some people (like employers, councils and occupiers of buildings) have extra duties and, if they breach them, you may be entitled to claim against them.

Even if you don’t know who caused your injury (for example, because you were hurt in a “hit and run” road accident or you were assaulted in the street), you may be entitled to compensation from one of the government agencies.